North West-headquartered delivery giant Yodel has announced plans to create almost 3,000 new jobs ahead of Christmas.
The independent parcel carrier said it will recruit for 2,500 self-employed and 450 employed roles, as it prepares for what it expects to be the "busiest festive period in recent history".
The new roles for the Liverpool-headquartered firm will include couriers and parcel sorters at one of Yodel’s 50 locations nationwide.
Yodel said its recruitment drive is in response to the demand for online retail, which has increased "dramatically" this year.
The firm added that the Covid-19 enforced lockdown stimulated a shift in consumer behaviour as shoppers recognised the benefits of ordering goods online.
Mike Hancox, CEO of Yodel, said: “The ongoing growth in online retail is set to continue into the festive season as consumers flock to buy gifts for friends, family and loved ones. We’re expecting this peak period to be higher in intensity and longer in duration than ever before as people look to prepare for Christmas earlier.
“That’s why, as we prepare for a period of sustained demand, we are looking to welcome more than 2,900 new colleagues, bolstering our operations to ensure customers and clients receive the excellent service they deserve.
“At Yodel we pride ourselves on our people, and our colleagues all enjoy the team spirit and opportunity to play a part in important community initiatives such delivering food to NHS hospitals.”
Data from the Office for National Statistics showed recently that internet sales made up 32.8% of the total retail sales in the country during May, a record high, and have remained significantly above pre-lockdown levels since.
Yodel said it expects that trend to continue through the winter months as consumers look to finalise their Christmas shopping as conveniently as possible whilst social distancing restrictions remain in place.
The announcement follows the firm's investment plans to create a brand new Northern super-hub to support the business’s long-term growth and keep up with demands for deliveries.
